Red Star battled back and it was not until the hour before Hepple crashed home a volley which gave Barlow no chance.

The impressive Price celebrated his debut by scoring Roofing’s third goal, and Ian Fairlamb hit a consolation goal for Seaham.

Stokesley enhanced their promotion aspirations with a 3-1 victory at home to Crook Town. Paul Crager headed in on 40 minutes, but a minute before the interval Gavin Barton was on target for Crook. Early in the second period Andrew Jennings restored the advantage to the home team and his second goal just about ended Crook’s hopes.

Northallerton Town went nap against Gillford Park and they romped to a 5-0 victory.

Stephen Allison and Carl Chillingsworth each bagged a brace with Martin Butterworth also on target.

Hebburn Town were another side to score five times when they romped to victory at Washington, whose only goal was credited to John Sherlock.

He cancelled out Willie Crew’s early strike, but Hebburn ran the show and further goals flowed from Gary McCartney with a hat-trick, and Mark Brocklehurst.

The Newtowners ended with only nine men. Goalkeeper Ben Starford was sent off after 70 minutes to be replaced by Alan Oliver, and Graeme Liddle received his marching orders in the 85th minute.

Luke Bythway and Glen Butterworth scored within two minutes of each other to give Guisborough Town a cushion at home to Brandon United. Although Steve Flanagan reduced the deficit on 83 minutes, the home side held on to their narrow lead.

Darlington RA and Team Northumbria shared the points at Brinkburn Road. Mark Scott and Anthony Able were on the mark for RA with Ross Wilkinson replying.